Let your kids know you’re listening

1.When your children are talking about concerns, stop whatever you are doing and listen.

2.Express interest in what they are saying without being intrusive.

3.Listen to their point of view, even if it’s difficult to hear.

4.Let them complete their point before you respond.

5.Repeat what you heard them say to ensure that you understand them correctly.

Be available for your children

Notice times when your kids are most likely to talk for example, at bedtime, before dinner, in the car and be available.

Start the conversation; it lets your kids know you care about what’s happening in their lives. Find time each week for a one-on-one activity with each child, and avoid scheduling other activities during that time.

Learn about your children’s interests for example, favorite music and activities and show interest in them. Initiate conversations by sharing what you have been thinking about rather than beginning a conversation with a question.

Always Say “I Love You”

Love your children equally, but treat them uniquely. They’re individuals. Never compare.

Say “I love you” whenever you feel it, even if it’s 743 times a day. You simply cannot spoil a child with too many mushy words of affection and too many smooches.

Savor the moments. Yes, parenthood is the most exhausting job on the planet. Yes, your house is a mess, the laundry’s piled up, and the dog needs to be walked. But your kid just laughed. Enjoy it now!